What is a Sleeve Gastrectomy?

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The Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure, commonly referred to as the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, Vertical Gastrectomy or the Sleeve, is a newer restrictive procedure where the majority of the stomach is removed, leaving a long tubular structure from the esophagus to the small intestine. The procedure is technically simpler than a gastric bypass and does not bypass any of the intestinal tract. There is no foreign material left within the abdomen. The risk of nutritional deficiency is lower compared to operations that bypass part of the gastrointestinal tract.

The recovery time after the Sleeve Gastrectomy resembles that of the gastric bypass. Hospital stay is typically one night after surgery and most patients are able to go home the following day. Many patients who have sedentary jobs return to work within 2-4 weeks. Patients with jobs that require more physical effort may be out of work for 4-6 weeks.